Sewer Scope Inspections 

Damaged sewer lines can cause an incredible amount of damage to your Alexandria home and property in a short amount of time. Not only that, but exposed sewage is also a major health hazard. That’s why it’s important to schedule a sewer scope inspection as soon as you suspect there’s an issue. It’s also a good idea to have a sewer inspection performed on any properties you’re considering buying or selling. Donofrio & Associates, LLC is a leading provider of accurate sewer scope inspections in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Our trained technicians will use high-tech equipment and cameras to map your sewer lines and assess them for damage. We’re here to restore your peace of mind, from the ground up! 

What’s a Sewer Scope Inspection? When Do You Need a Sewer Inspection?

During a sewer scope inspection, we attach a video camera to a snake-like wire and drop it into your sewer line. The goal of a sewer scope inspection is to pinpoint areas of damage and other potential problems. Our sewer scope cameras can detect everything from hairline cracks to large tree roots. Homeowners, home buyers, and home sellers have all used our reports to make confident and well-informed decisions about their property’s sewer system. With a sewer scope inspection by Donofrio & Associates, LLC in hand, you’ll have a chance to act before extensive damage, repairs, and health concerns arise. 

What Causes Sewer Line Issues in Alexandria?

Most sewer line problems are caused by one of a few common problems:

• Improper installation: In some cases, sewer lines are installed incorrectly. Extreme angles, ill-fitting connections, and poor quality materials can lead to plumbing and sewer problems and are cause for repair. 
• Tree roots: The roots of trees like to spread near sewer pipes because of the proximity to moisture. Unfortunately, these roots can also grow into tiny cracks in pipes and cause them to worsen over time. 
• Ground settling: Sinkholes, seismic activity, excavations, and nearby construction can cause the ground near pipes to shift and settle. As the sewer pipes bow, they create natural dips where water and sewage collect, creating a blockage. 
• Low-quality pipe materials: Pipes built using low-quality materials are more likely to fracture, leak, sag, or deteriorate. These will need to be repaired or replaced sooner rather than later. 

Signs You Have a Sewer Line Problem

There are many signs that your home is experiencing a sewer line problem, but some of them are not as apparent as others. If you notice any of the following signs around your property, you should schedule an Alexandria sewer scope inspection immediately: 

• Sewage backups
• Unpleasant odors
• Slow draining
• Green patches or dead patches in grass
• Insect activity
• Rodent infestation 
• Mold growth
• New indent or depression in the yard 
• Foundation issues 

The Sewer Scope Inspection Process 

Here at Donofrio & Associates, LLC, we follow a step-by-step process during each sewer line inspection. Our method was developed over the course of our 20+ years in business, and it’s geared towards thoroughness and accuracy. We also have state-of-the-art technology like cameras that capture images and videos of suspected leaks and clogs. 

Before the inspection, we’ll flush the sewer lines with running water to create a clear, unobstructed path for the cameras. The water will also help the camera float, which makes it easier for us to move it along the sewer line. 

Next, your inspector will establish an access point, check for leaks at that location, and place drop cloths. Before they begin, your inspector will also double-check the camera equipment for damage. Once everything is in place, we’ll place the camera scope into the line and push it along the pipe system. 

We’ll take careful note of any blocks, leaks, issues, or defects. All of this information will go in a comprehensive report that you can share with a plumber. This information will be invaluable for sewer line repairs and replacements. 

Your Sewer Scope Inspectors in Alexandria 

Donofrio and Associates will perform a sewer scope to identify areas of suspect clogs or damage and to document the areas for further review. Further investigations of these areas or destructive testing may reveal additional conditions that were not readily visible at the time of inspection which is outside the scope of this inspection. The report is based on information obtained at the site on the day/time of inspection. We document our findings with videos and visual photographs of the readily accessible areas. The purpose of any sewer scope service is to document problems in sewer lines. Our inspection is designed to comply with InterNACHI standards of practice and will be performed in a visual, non-destructive manner, however at times further evaluation and/or destructive testing may be necessary which is outside the scope of this inspection. The report is based on the information available to us at the time of the inspection.

To schedule your sewer scope inspection in Alexandria, call Donofrio & Associates, LLC today at 703-771-8374 or submit the convenient form on our website. We look forward to working with you! 

*Please contact the main office for additional information.